Light source tracker
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solar tracking devices are limited in their ability to continuously track the sun across all locations and varying external conditions, requiring complex systems, periodic repositioning, and reprogramming, and are often cumbersome and energy-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A solar tracker system with a single support column and universal joint allowing bi-axial rotation, combined with three linear actuators for orthogonal movement, enabling the carrier platform to face any direction from horizon to zenith and track the sun efficiently across a complete hemisphere using a minimal component, sensor array, and electronic control system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If devices rotate about only one or two axes with sophisticated electronic control systems, then tracking capability is achieved, but device complexity and structural weight increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the sun's own light to drive photo-sensitive sensors that automatically trigger actuators to reposition the collector, eliminating the need for complex electronic control systems, programming, or external power sources. The tracking is fully autonomous and self-regulating.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces sophisticated electronic control systems with a purely optical-mechanical solution using photo-sensitive sensors and light-driven actuators. This substitution eliminates complex electronics while achieving the same tracking function.
2Ease of operation
If turret mechanisms with motors and gear mechanisms are used, then rotational movement is achieved, but device complexity and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates complex mechanical components such as motors, gear mechanisms, chains, and bearings from the system. Instead, it uses simple light-driven actuators that directly convert optical energy to mechanical motion, dramatically reducing maintenance requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs light-driven pneumatic or hydraulic actuators that use gas or liquid pressure changes induced by light absorption to produce rotational movement, replacing traditional mechanical drive systems with fewer moving parts and lower maintenance needs.
3Measurement precision
If periodic repositioning or reprogramming is required, then tracking accuracy is maintained, but loss of time and operational continuity occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuous tracking operation by using real-time photo-sensitive detection that continuously adjusts the collector position as the sun moves across the sky. There are no periodic interruptions for repositioning or reprogramming, ensuring uninterrupted energy collection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs photo-sensitive sensors that provide continuous feedback on the sun's position, automatically triggering actuators to adjust the collector orientation in real-time. This closed-loop feedback system maintains tracking accuracy without requiring periodic manual intervention or reprogramming.
4Strength
If heavy frame and support structure with multitude of components are used, then structural strength is achieved, but weight and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the support structure into modular segments that can be independently positioned and supported. This segmentation allows for a lighter overall structure while maintaining sufficient strength through strategic placement of support elements, reducing both weight and energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses counterbalancing mechanisms and strategic placement of support elements to offset the weight of moving components, reducing the overall structural requirements and energy needed for operation. The light-driven actuators themselves provide counterbalancing forces during operation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system achieves full frontal exposure to the sun throughout the day, reduces energy consumption, and minimizes maintenance needs, allowing for efficient solar energy collection across diverse latitudes without requiring digital clock settings or seasonal alignment.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor array which monitors the spatial location of the point light source
Implementation Method 2
The orientation of said carrier platform is preferably maintained by three linear actuators
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
A tracking device for automatically following a moving light source that is detectable in the presence of ambient light. A carrier platform including one or more radiant energy conversion devices and a sensor array is mounted to an upright support column with a universal joint. Three independently-operated, linear actuators are equally angularly spaced about the support column with an upper end connected to the carrier platform with a universal hinge and a lower end connected to a floating base with a spherical hinge. A sensor array carried by the carrier platform includes a primary sensor associated with each actuator. During operation, when a primary sensor is not receiving direct radiant energy, the actuator retracts, and when it is receiving radiant energy directly, the actuator extends. The result is that the platform will directly track the sun across the horizon.